Spark Notes
In all honesty, I can’t remember much about the book. I read it when I was in college at Geneseo, when I was an English Lit major and reading a lot of books at the same time. I do remember that I loved it, especially at the end when I distinctly remember crying quite a bit. I felt that the book was excellent, and fully intend on rereading it as soon as I can.
According to the American Library Association’s website:
85 Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
Reason for challenges: racism, sexually explicit, offensive language
It seems weird that a black author could charged offensive by writing “racist” language. I mean, sure I know its possible for a black person to be racist, just like its possible for a white person to be racist. However, considering that almost all the characters in the book are black, it seems strange that Morrison would be considered racist against black people, which is where I assume they are trying to go with it. I’m also getting really bored with the “sexually explicit” claim. People have sex. Sex is life. That’s all there is to it. Granted, the main character, Milkman is in a relationship with his cousin, but that doesn’t stop it from being real life. Also the “offensive” bit. I’m going to assume that the “n” word is probably used quite a bit, since the book is not supposed to take place in the present. But even if it did, young black people still say the word, you can hear it in the music etc.
I am of the opinion that people need a reason to complain. They can’t handle it when a book that takes them out of their own comfort levels is really, really good. So they complain and try to wipe the existence of the book off the face of the planet. All I have to say is, shame on you. Shame shame shame.
I will remember to read this book again, because at the time of reading it in college, it was really good. Take that book burners!